From employers to people living at home, being prepared for sudden cardiac arrest is crucial. Have you ever wondered about what’s the job of a heart? It’s to create powerful beats at regular intervals and pump oxygen throughout the body. 

But when a cardiac arrest takes place, the heart suddenly stops beating the way it does normally. The heart starts twitching violently!

When such incidents take place, the heart can no longer pump oxygen to the brain. The patient expires. That is the reason doctors recommend carrying a portable defibrillator always along with such patients. 

But what’s a defibrillator? We’ll discuss everything in detail. Stay tuned till the end!

What is an AED?

This one is one of the most important medical tools which immediately restores the normal heartbeat for a patient experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest. What it does is, it gives the heart a sudden electric shock, due to which the heart starts beating the way it does. You can consider this life-saving device to be used in emergency conditions. An AED is really a life-saving device, and one should have it at their homes and in hospitals as well. 

Lifesaving Importance of AEDs

A huge number of people suffer from cardiac arrest every year. It’s true that we cannot stop that from happening. But the fact is, we can at least take the precaution and try to protect the patient from a sudden cardiac arrest. Because a cardiac arrest can take place at any time, anywhere, even without any prior major symptoms. 

So, it’s safer to carry such an emergency instrument for patients with poor heart conditions. Also, it is a wise decision to keep testing the heart conditions at least quarterly for older patients or patients with poor heart conditions. 

Before a cardiac arrest, there can be several indications or symptoms to observe carefully. Some of them are as follows:  a serious brain injury, loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, or even collapse. If not paid attention to, the likelihood of survival decreases every minute. 

The good news is that the odds of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest can be doubled or tripled with early CPR intervention and semi-automatic AED use. Yes, it holds immense significance in saving lives, regardless of the location. Automated external defibrillators increase the victim’s chances of survival if used within three to four minutes following cardiac arrest.

AEDs save you from waiting for paramedics to provide the life-saving treatment to the patient. It is no surprise that they are becoming more and more common in public places, particularly those with high pedestrian traffic. Therefore, if you are curious about the significance of AEDs, they are meant to allow laypeople to save lives. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an AED

Do you wonder how to use automated external defibrillators? Well, even someone with very basic first-aid training may operate it, thanks to its simple instructions. Despite the appearance and design of many models, the way to use this device is always the same. For your better understanding, here is your ultimate guide to using it:

1. Turn on the AED

The first step is to turn on your AED and follow the detailed audio instructions it provides. It explains how to look for a pulse and respiration, along with instructions on where and how to apply the AED pads to the patient’s exposed chest.

2. Apply the Electrodes

Now you must apply electrodes that can fully stick to the skin after making sure the patient’s chest is dry. For correct pad placement, you must adhere to the AED’s instructions while also looking at the electrode pads’ graphics. For the majority of electrodes, the patient should have one pad on their right side, below the collarbone and another on their left side, beneath the armpit.

3. Analyze 

Now the defibrillators will detect that the pads have been put correctly. It will then promptly prompt the patient and check their heart rhythm.

4. Deliver the Shock

Once the device detects that the patient is in cardiac arrest and that a shock is required, it will deliver it instantly. Depending on the device type, this is how it will work:

• Fully automated AED: it will charge and alert you to keep your distance from the patient if a shock is necessary. Then, without you having to click a button, it will count down and administer the shock automatically. 
• Semi-automatic AED: it will charge and ask you to press a button when it’s ready to shock you if one is needed. In an emergency, the button is typically flashing and simple to find. However, be careful not to touch the power button by mistake.

5. Perform CPR

Now you must perform CPR if required, even after delivering the shock. Some AEDs also teach users how to perform CPR. Repeat the procedure as necessary until emergency medical experts take control.

Top Benefits of Using an AED

Now that you know how a portable defibrillator works, let’s dive into the major benefits it offers:

1. Saves Lives

AEDs are medical tools designed to help patients with cardiac arrest in life-or-death emergencies. A person’s chances of surviving such situations sharply decline with every second that goes by. If appropriate treatment is not given right away, that person may face serious brain damage or possibly death in a matter of minutes. This is where defibrillators enter into play and increase survival rates. 

2. Easy Access

Another benefit of purchasing an AED is its ease of access. They are easily accessible when needed and are reliable. They are incredibly portable and versatile, and can be found everywhere. This includes malls, large stores, restaurants, residential places, public transportation and even aeroplanes.

3. Easy to Use

Another reason why you should have defibrillators is that they are easy to use. They are quite user-friendly and don’t require any professional training. If any abnormal heart activity is found, the defibrillator itself checks the victim’s heart rhythm and delivers shocks with electricity. Additionally, AEDs come with audio or video instructions that walk the first responder through each step of the procedure.

4. Peace of Mind

Having a portable defibrillator brings peace of mind, in which everyone can rest easy knowing that their employees or guests can receive care. Nothing gives you more self-assurance than having a workplace or school completely furnished with life-saving equipment. For more convenience, you must also use an AED backpack. 

Most Important Purchase You’ll Ever Make

At MedGuard, we are the leading supplier of portable defibrillators. To make sure you take care of your heart health, we have all the Medical supplies and accessories you need. This includes CPR feedback devices, wall mounts, etc. Our products are made using the highest-quality materials and ensure longevity. To learn more or to order, you can contact us without any hesitation.